Meeting Summary and Briefs: New Lenox Community Park District Board for Nov. 2025

New Lenox Community Park District Board Meeting | Nov. 2025

The New Lenox Community Park District Board of Commissioners met on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the Village Hall to handle annual tax levies and review departmental progress. President Ted Schulz called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Commissioners Dale Larson and Mark Ott were present; Vice President Brian Fischer and Treasurer Garry Kraemer were absent.

The board approved the 2025-2026 tax levy and several infrastructure agreements while receiving positive reports on district audits and recreational programs.

Food Pantry Donation:
The New Lenox Friends of the Parks presented a $6,500 check to the New Lenox Township Food Pantry. The funds were raised from the recent “Empty Bowl” event. The group expressed gratitude to the volunteers and donors who contributed to the success.

Staff Changes:
Commissioner Mark Ott announced the resignations of Marketing & PR Coordinator Caitlin Eichhorn and Athletic Maintenance Supervisor Owen Sigrist. The district welcomed Ciara Salwierak as the new Recreation Program Coordinator.

Park Developments:
Director of Parks-Maintenance Ken Stephens reported that the basketball court at Sharon’s Bay Park has been installed, and the fishing pier was scheduled for installation on November 20. The board also approved “Change Order #2” related to the Sharon’s Bay OSLAD grant project. Regarding the Nelson Prairie & Nelson Ridge playgrounds, the school district has opted for “option 2,” which includes partial rubber surfacing and additional ADA units.

Golf Course Update:
Commissioner Larson reported that the golf course is in great shape despite some irrigation issues and a recent water main break on hole 15 that was quickly repaired. He noted the district is looking to replace a 30-year-old tractor with new equipment capable of plowing snow on the driving range.

Recreation Successes:
Director of Recreation Olga Viano reported that the “Gobbler Gauntlet” race was a great success with over 300 runners. She also noted that the Winter/Spring 2026 Program Guide registration begins December 8.

Administrative Building Donation:
President Schulz acknowledged a letter sent to Brian Smagaca of Lowe’s Home Improvement, thanking the company for a generous donation of materials for the World War II Memorial at the Administrative Building and the Gaga Pit at Sharon’s Bay Park.